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The Effect of Global Warming on the Wet Tropics

Global warming causes the Earth's temperature to rise due to an excess of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, most commonly caused by man-made air pollution. Global warming is a major threat to humans, plants and animal species all over the world. The wet tropics, however, may be particularly vulnerable to its harmful effects.

  1. Plant Growth

    • The rising temperatures cause plants to go through the process of photosynthesis more slowly. Not only does this slow the actual growth process of plants, but it also further contributes to global warming. This is because plants naturally absorb the carbon dioxide in the air that contributes to the greenhouse effect, which causes global warming. Global warming can also cause droughts, and the lack of rainfall may contribute to an overall loss of forest cover.

    Endangered Species

    • Many plants, animals and insects in the tropics are highly sensitive to temperature changes. Many are already living at the maximum temperature they can withstand. Even a slight rise in temperatures has the potential to eliminate an entire species. Although some species may adapt over time, some may need to move hundreds of miles just to find cooler locations away from the tropical rain forests. The species that live in the mountains will have no other place to go.

    Coral Reefs

    • Coral reefs are one of the most complex ecosystems on the planet and are highly affected by global warming. Rising air temperatures increase the oceans' temperatures, which causes coral bleaching. Also, the oceans become more acidic, with the change in water chemistry negatively affecting the growth of coral. This then negatively affects plankton growth. Plankton is the first link in the food chain and its elimination can have devastating effects. Plankton is also the source of 50 percent of the world's oxygen.

    Natural Disasters

    • In addition to plants and animals, humans living in tropical locations are also vulnerable to the negative effects of global warming. Scientists believe that rising ocean temperatures may lead to increased tropical storms, floods, heat waves, droughts and other natural disasters. These disasters can cause immediate human injuries and deaths, as well as lead to famine and a lack of clean water supplies. Health concerns resulting from such natural disasters include the spread of infectious diseases, weakened immune systems and malnutrition.

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